Diovan (Valsartan)

Do's

• Take this medication by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once or twice daily, with or without food. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. For children, the dosage is also based on weight. 
• Shake the bottle well for at least 10 seconds before each dose if using the liquid form. 
• Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon if using the liquid form. 
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. 
• Continue taking this medication even if you feel well, as most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. 
• Make lifestyle changes such as exercising, stopping smoking, and following a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet to help the medication work better. Consult your healthcare provider for more details. 
• Check your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your own blood pressure and share the results with your healthcare provider. 
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. 
• Store this medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture. 
• Keep all medications away from children and pets. 
• Take other medications, such as beta-blockers, in addition to valsartan to further reduce the risk of another heart attack. 

Don'ts

• Do not use a household spoon to measure the liquid form of this medication; it may lead to incorrect dosing. 
• Do not double the dose if you miss one to catch up. Your healthcare provider may increase the dose slowly over 1 to 2 weeks to a target dosage if tolerated. 
• Do not store this medication in the bathroom.  

1. Common Side Effects:
   • Headache
   • Dizziness
   • Feeling tired or fatigued
   • Stomach pain
   • Diarrhea
   • Back pain
   • Cough
   • Abnormal kidney function
2. Less Common Side Effects:
   • High blood potassium levels
   • Nausea
   • Weakness
   • Chest pain
   • Irregular heartbeats
   • Joint pain
3. Rare Side Effects:
   • Allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)
   • Little or no urination
   • High blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Diovan,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Before taking Diovan, it is important to be aware of certain warnings and precautions:

1. Pregnancy and Fetal Toxicity: Diovan can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Use of drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy can reduce fetal renal function and increase fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. Discontinue Diovan as soon as pregnancy is detected.
2. Hypotension: Diovan can cause low blood pressure (hypotension), especially in patients who are volume-depleted or have salt depletion. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly, and dosage adjustments may be necessary.
3. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Diovan. It's important to seek immediate medical attention if any signs of an allergic reaction occur, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
4. Interactions and Precautions: Diovan may interact with other medications. It's important to inform a healthcare provider about all medications being taken. Diovan should be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or kidney disease.
5. Other Precautions: Diovan should be used with caution in patients with a history of angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat) or with a history of hereditary angioedema. It should also be used cautiously in patients with heart failure, kidney problems, or a history of stroke.